Anger has a reputation. It is linked with hostile, aggressive, volatile, and even violent behaviour. So we shy away from it—we’d rather feel happy, joyful, optimistic, or excited. But is anger all bad? It’s Skye on the Dóchas blog today, and I’m going to talk about anger.
Does anyone want to feel angry? Maybe not, but I can’t help but wonder if any emotional experience is all bad? After all, doesn’t our body do almost everything for a purpose? Here are some alternate perspectives on this “bad” emotion:
1. Anger as a messenger
The first benefit of anger is that anger can tell us something. Maybe we are out of alignment with our beliefs and values or maybe we aren’t being treated fairly. This means that when we feel anger, instead of pushing it away we should try to understand where it’s coming from.
Start by looking at yourself and considering if you’re able to tune into your experience of anger and ask it what it is trying to tell you.
2. Anger keeps you safe
Evolutionarily, during times of danger, anger would be part of the threat response. It would help prepare our body to retaliate, be aggressive, and protect ourselves if necessary. This is a pretty important function! When you feel anger, is it telling you that something doesn’t feel safe?
3. Anger helps us to feel in control
Anger can give us a sense of control and reduce discomfort in times of uncertainty. It can also give us the motivation to act and balance injustices. Anger can be followed by catharsis and can cultivate hope that we can take action. When you feel anger, you can consider if it’s motivating you to do something.
4. Anger can help us communicate
Anger lets others know we feel strongly about a topic and can encourage collaboration. Have you ever experienced having your opinion overlooked by others until you make clear you are angry? Sometimes we need the energy and forcefulness that anger brings to get our point across to others. This may also strengthen our position during negotiations.
When Anger Isn’t So Good
Those were four alternate ways of seeing anger. Suddenly anger doesn’t sound so bad… so when is it?
Anger isn’t all good or all bad. Think of anger as being on a continuum. There is anger that assists you to function optimally as a person, serving as a cue or energizer as needed to help you survive and thrive. However, when anger starts to interfere in your relationships or with function in an area of your life, it might be a good time to explore your anger further. An emotion that significantly impacts how you function in the world on a day-to-day basis should be addressed.
If you’d like to speak with a counsellor about your anger, or another emotion you might be experiencing, reach out to us here at Dóchas. We’d love to offer a professional helping hand as you figure out what your emotions are telling you and how you can navigate them in a healthy way. You can reach us at 780-446-0300 or at info@dochaspsych.com.
About Dóchas Psychological
Dóchas Psychological Services is a well-established and trusted therapy clinic located in Spruce Grove, Alberta. At Dóchas we value the idea that everyone deserves a safe space. Through connection and education, our team works hard to build a trustworthy relationship with each of our clients. It is our goal to create a community for our clients to feel like they belong.
Disclaimer
Information provided through Dóchas Psychological Services blogs or vlogs is meant for educational purposes only. They are NOT medical or mental health advice. You can read more about our disclaimer here.
